July 7 – My Neighbor Totoro (Studio Ghibli)
1988 G 1 hour, 26 minutes
The story of two sisters who move to the countryside. They discover a magical world of forest spirits, including the titular Totoro, a large and friendly creature, and engage in whimsical adventures in their new home.
July 14 – Flow (Dream Well Studio)
2024 PG 1 hour, 25 minutes
The dialogue-free gem that won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film, this is the story of a black cat who, after losing his home to a flood, finds refuge on a boat with other animals. The film explores themes of survival, friendship, and the consequences of climate change.
July 21 – Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (Warner Bros.)
2019 PG 1 hour, 44 minutes
A young man partners with a talking Pikachu (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) to solve the case of his father’s disappearance. They navigate the city of Ryme, where humans and Pokémon coexist, uncovering clues and facing a larger mystery that could threaten the harmony of their world.
July 28 – The Bad Guys (Dreamworks)
2022 PG 1 hour, 40 minutes
An animated action-comedy about a group of animal criminals led by Mr. Wolf who, to avoid prison, are forced to pretend to be good and rehabilitated. They face challenges as they navigate society and attempt to turn their lives around. The Bad Guys 2 is only in theaters August 2.
Summer Movie Nights
Mondays in July, Movies start at 5pm, bring your dinner and eat during the movie. Screenings are free, we’ll have popcorn, goldfish, and juice boxes, and kids can pick a bin to sit in for a “drive-in movie” experience. Great family fun!
Children are loved here!
Ministry for children at all life stages is a critical part of the mission of the church.
Nursing Mothers:
Nurse wherever you like. There is also a reserved Nursing Room available on Sunday mornings and various times throughout the week near the Library area.
Toddler Sunday School
On first Sundays, toddlers gather for a Bible storybook collection, some play time, and a snack. Your RSVP helps us plan better!
Sunday School (Pre-K-6th Graders, September-May):
Following the Time with Children in worship, children are welcome to remain for worship or go to Sunday School on 2nd and 4th Sundays. Games, lessons, music, crafts, take-home materials, and other content are typically tied to the same scripture readings featured in worship so families can talk about their Sunday experiences together. Gatherings are outdoors when weather permits.
About Children and Worship:
People of all ages are always welcome in worship! Here are some options available to your family:
- The Nook | A Space connected to the Sanctuary, perfect for having a quiet moment.
- Art Cart | Fill a bag with arts and craft items in The Nook to bring with them to worship.
- Time with Children | Children may come to the chancel to experience a message just for them. Parents and guardians may join their children and are encouraged to use this moment as a launchpad to speak openly with their children about living out their faith.
- Toddler Sunday School | Toddlers get a Bible story, play time, and a snack on first Sundays.
- Children First Sundays | Children and adults lead worship side-by-side together typically once per quarter. Children lead the liturgy and prayers, read the scripture text, and serve Holy Communion, and the Children’s Choir sings special music.
- Sunday School (K-5) | Following the Time with Children, children are welcome to remain for worship or go to Sunday School on 2nd and 4th Sundays. Reach out to get involved.
- Nursing Mothers | Nurse wherever you like. There’s also a reserved Nursing Room near the Librar
Special Events
Children receive a Bible when they are baptized, at the age of 3, and when they’re in 3rd Grade.
Children of all ages are welcome for Holy Communion.
Vacation Bible Camp (VBC) is July 12, Summer Movie Nights (July), service projects, family gatherings, and other special events happen all year long.
Online Resources for Kids
Families have online resources for kids to have fun and develop their faith. Due to copyright, not all of our typical curriculum can be posted here, but you can get on our mailing list for full access when you contact us, thanks!
Here are some recommended resources for you:
Amplify Media has amazing videos for kids and families to watch together and talk about faith lessons!
Cokesbury’s Deep Blue Adventure Videos are online for free!
Illustrated Ministry has a free online resource, if you sign up!
Crayola always has the absolute best coloring pages to print!
Talk with your kids about racism and anti-racism!
Faith5 helps families share, read, talk, pray, and bless together!